State Library of South Australia Tours

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Housed in a French Renaissance building from 1884, the State Library of South Australia has the state’s largest literary collection and public reference library. Now comprised of multiple wings, the museum is known for the Mortlock Wing and its architectural beauty, which has led to its inclusion on lists of the world’s most visually stunning libraries. Inside of the vaunted building is a cornucopia of knowledge, on everything from wines of South Australia to pieces of South Australiana that detail the area’s heritage. You’ll also find a large selection of texts on indigenous Australian heritage, as well as a library for the Royal Geographic Society of South Australia. At the Treasures Wall, ogle over rare books and highlights from the library’s collections, some of which date to the ancient world or are the only remaining document in print. Aside from the wealth of literary offerings, the library houses cultural collections of art and memorabilia, from Ernabella rugs from Pukatja aborigines, to over 30,000 items that comprise the Australian Aboriginal Ethnographic collection.

Practical Info

There are free tours daily at 11am and 2pm that are led by local volunteers. There are also services for genealogy and researching family history, as well as a café for a quick bite or drink.

Location

Address: North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia 5000, Australia

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Hours: The Mortlock Wing is open 10am-5pm daily, and the Spence Wing is open 10am-8pm Monday-Friday, 10am-6pm Thursday-Friday, and 10am-5pm on weekends. Closed on public holidays.

See the highlights of Adelaide, and customize your sightseeing experience with optional upgrades for a River Torrens cruise and admission to the Adelaide Zoo. The 3-hour city coach tour introduces you to Adelaide’s blend of historical structures, contemporary architecture and pretty parks as you see sights like St Peter’s Cathedral and the North Terrace. Plus, visit Haigh’s Chocolates for tastings and a cup of coffee. If you select an upgrade, you’ll enjoy leisurely sightseeing from the water on a river cruise and check out the beloved pandas at the Adelaide Zoo.

Discover the laid-back South Australia capital on this 6-hour coach tour of the city’s best bits. Follow your guide to landmarks like Trinity Church, St Peter’s Cathedral and the Terraces; admire the elegant architecture of Victoria Square and King William Street, and indulge in a chocolate tasting at the famous Haigh’s Chocolates. After taking in the views from the Light’s Vision lookout, enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the legendary Adelaide Oval and Bradman Museum, a must for cricket fans.

This leisurely small-group walking tour explores the North Terrace area of Adelaide. Filled with cultural institutions and other public buildings, this mile-long avenue also boasts many historical buildings, including an 1838 church, the colonial-era Ayers House, and the Adelaide Casino in a restored 1920s railway station. Tour highlights include Parliament House, Adelaide University, the War Memorial, and more.